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Autonomous shuttle connects metro and airport

During a pilot phase, the self-driving shuttle – a so-called KARSAN e-Atak bus – will carry passengers along a fixed route between the metro station and the airport. This will not only provide the region with a smart transport solution, but also a test environment for the future of autonomous public transport. The rides take place within a strictly defined area and under set conditions. There is always a specially trained “safety driver” on board, who can intervene if necessary.

“The route between RTHA and the metro station is clear and contains few complex traffic situations, making it suitable for automated buses. The vehicles are equipped with sensors, radar and camera systems that continuously monitor the environment,” Rotterdam The Hague Airport said in an official press release.

RDW plays key role in admission with Prototype scheme

For this first, the Rijksdienst voor het Wegverkeer (RDW) played a central role. On the basis of the so-called Prototype Regulation, the RDW granted temporary individual approval, allowing the vehicle to go on public roads under strict conditions. This was preceded by extensive testing, including on the RDW test track in Lelystad. The assessment focused on the behavior of the vehicle, the functioning of the Automated Driving System (ADS) and the role of the human attendant.

Knowledge for tomorrow’s policies

The RDW emphasizes that safety always comes first. The experience gained with this shuttle provides valuable input for developing future regulations around self-driving transport. By allowing such pilots in a controlled manner, innovative vehicles can be tested in practice, while the safety of road users remains guaranteed.

Collaboration makes mobility smarter

The project is the result of close cooperation between transport company RET, DAM Shuttles, Rotterdam The Hague Airport, the municipality of Rotterdam, the Rotterdam-Den Hague Metropolitan Region (MRDH), the vehicle manufacturer and the technology supplier. Together they are taking a step towards more sustainable, smarter and automated mobility.

Wheelchair accessible

Starting August 1, travelers can use the new bus line 533. These self-driving buses are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate 20 passengers, including luggage. From September 1, line 533 is also included in the regular timetable and you can find the rides in travel planners such as 9292. Bus line 533 complements line 33, which will continue to run as usual along its existing route.

Shuttle Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Wilma van Dijk, General Director of RTHA, is pleased with the arrival of the Shuttle Rotterdam The Hague Airport, as the bus is officially called: “I am extremely proud that we can deploy this shuttle to transport passengers and employees to and from Rotterdam The Hague Airport. Our airport is a testing ground for innovation, where we open our airport as a test site for new technologies and sustainable solutions, such as this zero-emission autonomous bus. Thanks to our small scale and close cooperation with our partners, we can test together and achieve great results.”